Tuesday, December 12, 2006

Bluefin Tuna Behind Emerald Isle

Greg Dennis, owner of Reel Outdoors Tackle Shop in Emerald Isle, and his neighbor Hugh Sutton landed what has to be one of the most bizarre catches we've ever heard of. A few weeks ago they were in their backyards along Archer's Creek on the sound side of Emerald Isle when a large fish was spotted swimming in the shallow creek. The two hopped on board Dennis' 16-foot Carolina Skiff and began following the large wake trying to identify the fish. After spotting a forked tail and ensuring it wasn't either a red drum or stripper they were able to foul hook and then gaff it. After bringing the 76.5 inch monster into the boat they realized they had just caught a bluefin tuna. Federal law requires boats landing bluefin tuna to have permits and imposes a pretty stiff fine on violators, Dennis is currently facing a civil penalty that could range up to a few grand. More on the Archer's Creek bluefin tuna is available from the Jacksonville Daily News.

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